The central government has promised more support to the socio-economic development of the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions (SARs).

During the weekend, President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao said the government will continue to implement the basic policy of "one country, two systems," pledging full support for the governments of the SARs to maintain long-term prosperity and stability.

The two leaders made the remarks while meeting Tung Chee-hwa, chief executive of the Hong Kong SAR, and Edmund Ho Hau Wah, chief executive of the Macao SAR, on separate occasions on Saturday and Sunday.

The two chief executives are attending the National People's Congress sessions as non-voting delegates.

During his meeting with Tung, Hu noted that the economy of Hong Kong was recovering and there was more local confidence, which is the result of common efforts.

The president said the central government will continue to support the Hong Kong SAR government's work in line with the basic law, and help boost Hong Kong's economy.

Hu spoke highly of the positive discussion on the principle of "one country, two systems" in Hong Kong, and said it is necessary to review Deng Xiaoping's theory on "one country, two systems," which is still playing an significant role in guiding the practice.

During his meeting with Ho Hau Wah, the president praised the government for its efforts and progresses in maintaining the good situation in Macao. Hu said he hoped Macao will continue to implement the policy of "one country, two systems" and the basic law, while pressing ahead with economic development.

(China Daily March 8, 2004)